Tanushree Dutta has found herself at the centre of a fresh controversy following the death of veteran actor Nana Patekar. The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has strongly criticised the actress over her reaction to the news, particularly her use of the phrase “evil dead” while referring to the late actor. The association described her remarks as insensitive and questioned their timing, adding another chapter to the long-running dispute between the two personalities.
Nana Patekar died on October 8, 2026, at the age of 75. As colleagues, fans and members of the film industry shared tributes, Tanushree posted a video on social media discussing the news while preparing to travel to Lucknow for a professional event. Her comments attracted attention online, prompting AICWA to issue a strongly worded statement.
AICWA Condemns Tanushree Dutta’s ‘Evil Dead’ Remark
The All Indian Cine Workers Association, led by its founder and president Suresh Shyamlal Gupta, condemned Tanushree Dutta’s reaction to Nana Patekar’s death.
In its statement, the association described the actress’s words as objectionable, insensitive and shameful. It argued that a person’s death should be approached with sensitivity, regardless of past disagreements or personal differences.
AICWA also criticised what it perceived as an attempt to draw attention to the controversy at a time when the film fraternity was mourning the loss of an established actor. The association questioned why Tanushree had discussed her professional schedule and upcoming event while speaking about the news.
The organisation further highlighted Patekar’s contribution to Indian cinema, his Padma Shri honour and his association with the Naam Foundation, which works to support distressed farming communities.
AICWA extended condolences to his family and maintained that public figures should exercise restraint when commenting on someone’s death. Its statement has added to the online debate surrounding Tanushree’s reaction.
Why Did Tanushree Dutta Mention ‘Evil Dead’?
In a video shared on social media on October 8, Tanushree said she had heard the news of Nana Patekar’s death but wanted to focus on her professional commitments in Lucknow.
She explained that she had planned her day around an important event and intended to conduct live sessions and publish content. She also expressed concern that media attention might shift towards her reaction to Patekar’s death rather than her scheduled work.
During the video, she referred to the phrase “evil dead” and said she would offer a reaction once she had decided what she wanted to say. She also expressed condolences to Patekar’s family before the clip ended mid-sentence.
The video prompted mixed reactions. While some viewers criticised her choice of words, others pointed to the difficult history between the two actors and the emotional impact she has previously described.
AICWA subsequently issued its statement, turning the actress’s social media post into a wider entertainment-industry controversy.
Tanushree Dutta and Nana Patekar’s 2018 #MeToo Controversy
The latest dispute has revived memories of the controversy that emerged in 2018, when Tanushree accused Nana Patekar of sexual harassment during the filming of a song for Horn ‘Ok’ Pleassss.
Dutta alleged that Patekar behaved inappropriately towards her during the production of the film, which was shot years earlier. Her public statements became a major talking point during India’s #MeToo movement, encouraging wider discussions about workplace safety, consent and accountability in the entertainment industry.
Patekar denied the allegations and rejected Dutta’s account. The controversy generated extensive media coverage and divided public opinion, with many people debating the treatment of women working in the film industry.
The dispute remained part of the public conversation for years, even as both sides maintained their respective positions.
What Happened to the Case Against Nana Patekar?
Following Dutta’s allegations, a complaint was filed and Mumbai Police investigated the matter. In 2019, the police submitted a closure report citing insufficient evidence to proceed with the case.
In 2025, a Mumbai magistrate court dismissed the criminal proceedings on the ground that the complaint had been filed beyond the applicable limitation period, according to media reports.
Patekar consistently denied the allegations. The legal developments must be distinguished from the competing accounts presented by the two actors: the closure of the investigation and the dismissal of proceedings did not establish Dutta’s allegations as proven.
Dutta, meanwhile, continued to speak publicly about the experience and the difficulties she says followed her decision to come forward.
Nana Patekar’s Death Sparks Debate Beyond Bollywood Tributes
Nana Patekar was known for acclaimed performances in films such as Parinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical and Natsamrat. He also received the Padma Shri in recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema.
Beyond acting, he was associated with social initiatives through the Naam Foundation, which supports farmers and rural communities facing hardship.
Following his death, tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry. Against this backdrop, Tanushree’s remarks and AICWA’s response have sparked a separate debate about grief, personal history and public statements.
The controversy highlights how unresolved disputes can return to the spotlight when public figures pass away. While AICWA has condemned the actress’s choice of words, the wider discussion also reflects the lasting impact of the 2018 #MeToo episode.
For now, Tanushree Dutta’s reaction continues to attract attention, with the association’s criticism adding a new dimension to a dispute that has remained prominent in Bollywood for years.
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